Abuja – The ECOWAS Court of Justice has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls across West Africa, promising justice that is accessible, effective, and transformative.
Speaking at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration in Abuja, Court President Justice Ricardo Gonçalves said the institution aims to turn legal protections into real-life impact. “We pledge to build a region where justice and protection of the rights of women and girls is not an aspiration but a lived reality,” he said.
The event, themed “Break the Silence, End Gender-Based Violence Now,” highlighted the court’s work in upholding human rights, challenging discrimination, and providing remedies for survivors of gender-based violence. Justice Dupe Atoki and other speakers stressed that women’s rights are fundamental, not privileges, and called for collective action to enforce them.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu of the National Human Rights Commission described the court as “the conscience of the sub-region,” urging stakeholders to ensure every woman knows her voice is her power.
The celebration also doubled as a call to action for stronger legal frameworks, cultural change, and gender parity, with the court pledging to continue its outreach, rulings, and partnerships to protect women and girls.
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